Animal welfare is largely perceived as a ‘public good’ by European citizens (Miele & Evans, 2010) and it is considered a necessary element of sustainable animal production (Broom, 2010). The demand for “welfare friendly” products increases as public conscience and perception on livestock production systems grow. Animal welfare is not only a matter of ethics, but also an essential tool to gain and maintain markets, and any husbandry that benefits sustainability should maximize animal welfare and avoid its potential impairment. While addressing ethical aspects about the sustainability of meat production systems, developments in animal welfare should be based on a solid scientific background.